Ukrainian drone operators recently came across a Russian T-72 tank just west of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine with a metal roof on its hull and turret. This improvised armor design inspired the nickname “turtle tank” and has become a trend among Russian military crews in Ukraine. The armor was designed to protect against Ukrainian drones, but it only works against a specific type of munition, as Ukrainians are set to expand their arsenal with new weapons.
The turtle tanks, which have become a common sight along the eastern front, are mostly used by the 5th Motor Rifle Brigade, a former Ukrainian separatist unit that joined the Russian army. While observers initially laughed at the awkward design of the turtle tanks, they have proven to be somewhat effective in surviving attacks. However, the turtle tanks are not without their drawbacks, including impeded visibility, mobility, and a gap in the armor that drones could exploit.
The Russian army’s decision to deploy turtle tanks is seen as an adaptation to the conditions of the battlefield in Ukraine, where the Russians are facing a shortage of ammunition. Ukraine has compensated for the lack of heavy munitions by producing a large number of inexpensive FPV drones that are being used to target Russian troops. As a result, protecting against these drones has become a priority for the Russian military, leading to the development of improvised armor and radio jammers for tanks.
The turtle tanks are typically sent ahead of other vehicles, accompanied by infantry, to clear a safe path to Ukrainian lines. The priority is to protect infantry assault groups and help them advance across open fields to reach buildings or defensive positions. However, the effectiveness of the turtle tanks may be challenged with the arrival of fresh U.S. aid to Ukraine, which includes artillery shells and anti-tank missiles. This could pose a significant threat to the turtle tanks and their crews on the battlefield.
As the Ukrainian arsenal expands with heavier munitions, including artillery shells and anti-tank missiles, the turtle tanks will face new challenges beyond just countering drones. The landscape of the battlefield is set to change with the increased firepower available to the Ukrainians, raising questions about the future effectiveness of the turtle tanks and their ability to withstand larger munitions. The evolving conflict in Ukraine is likely to test the adaptability of both sides and the effectiveness of their respective military strategies.
